iPhone Users Will Soon Be Able to Store Digital Passports
Apple announced today that iPhone owners will soon have the ability to digitally store their US passports on their devices, streamlining domestic air travel.
According to Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president for Apple Pay and Wallet, users will be able to scan their physical passports into the Wallet app, creating a digital version compliant with REAL ID standards. This digital ID can then be used at participating Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints for domestic flights, and travel to US territories like Puerto Rico. The move represents a significant step towards replacing physical identification documents with digital alternatives.
However, Apple clarified that the digital passport will not be valid for international travel. Travelers will still need to carry a physical US passport when crossing international borders, including those with Canada and Mexico. Bailey also indicated Apple’s broader vision for the Wallet app, hoping to expand its use to include concert tickets, student IDs, and even digital car and house keys. For more information on REAL ID requirements, visit the TSA website.
While offering convenience, the implementation of digital ID wallets raises security concerns. The Identity Management Institute cautions users about potential risks such as security breaches, identity theft, and data privacy issues, recommending strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and cautious transaction practices. You can learn more about protecting your digital identity here.
Apple plans to release the feature in the coming months, and will continue to work with the TSA and other agencies to expand the functionality and security of digital identification within the Wallet app.
Apple will soon allow iPhone owners to add digital versions of their US passports to their phones, said Jennifer Bailey, vice president for Apple Pay and Wallet, on Sunday.Â
The digital document will be compliant with REAL ID, but you’ll still need a physical US passport to fly internationally or cross US land borders with Canada and Mexico.
Apple wants to broaden how people can use its online Wallet feature for identification purposes. You can already use a digital ID for your driver’s license in certain states, and Bailey said Apple wants people to use Wallet for concert tickets, student IDs, house keys, car keys and more.
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Not for international travel
When the feature becomes available, iPhone users can scan their physical US passport to add it to the Wallet app, creating a digital ID that’s compliant with REAL ID. When flying domestically, travelers can show that digital version from their iPhone or Apple Watch, instead of using their physical passport, at participating TSA checkpoints. REAL ID is required to fly within the US and to US territories such as Puerto Rico.Â
However, travelers will not be able to use their digital ID to fly internationally, not even to Mexico or Canada. When crossing borders, you’ll still need your physical US passport to enter and leave the country.
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Convenience … and risk
While relying on Apple Wallet might be convenient, there are risks, according to the Identity Management Institute, a global identity and access management organization. Possible dangers of digital ID wallets include security breaches, identity theft and data privacy issues. Losing your device is another major risk.
The organization said that people using digital ID wallets must take several precautions, which are good tips for any online activity.
- Use strong, unique passwords or PINs.
- Enable two-factor authentication.
- Keep devices and software up to date.
- Be cautious about where you’re making digital transactions. Verify that you’re shopping or otherwise using your digital ID at legitimate sites.
